Last Updated on November 7, 2024
Són (pronounced “sohn”), Boðn (pronounced “both-n”), and Óðrerir (pronounced “oh-thray-reer”) are three important vessels, two vats and a kettle. Each one plays a key role in tales about the mead of poetry, a drink that brings wisdom and poetic skill. These vessels appear in both the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, where they carry Kvasir’s blood, mixed with honey, to create this magical mead. Giants, gods, and dwarves alike value this precious drink, which gives power to those who consume it.
According to the stories, Kvasir was born from the mingled spit of the Æsir and Vanir. Known for his wisdom, he traveled widely to teach others. But two dwarves, Fjalarr and Galarr, killed him and brewed his blood into the mead. This mead filled Són, Boðn, and Óðrerir, each vessel embodying the wisdom and inspiration inside. Suttung, a giant, guarded them closely until Odin came up with a plan to claim the mead.
Disguised as the farmhand Bölverk, Odin won the trust of Suttung’s daughter, Gunnlöð, who gave him access to the mead. Odin drank it all, escaping as an eagle to bring the mead back to the Æsir. Són, Boðn, and Óðrerir each symbolize Odin’s drive to secure wisdom for his people, moving the power of the mead from giants to gods. Together, these vessels represent the deep value Norse culture placed on wisdom, poetry, and inspiration.
Elder Futhark Runes Associated with Són, Boðn, and Óðrerir
The Elder Futhark rune Ansuz connects well with Són, Boðn, and Óðrerir. This rune represents inspiration, wisdom, and eloquence—qualities the mead of poetry brings. Perthro, the rune of hidden knowledge and mystery, also ties to these vessels. As Odin sought and protected hidden wisdom, Perthro reminds us of the mead’s deeper secrets. Together, these runes capture the vessels’ connection to knowledge and the magic of poetic inspiration.
Importance in Asatru
In Asatru, Són, Boðn, and Óðrerir represent a quest for wisdom and self-improvement. Odin’s journey to retrieve the mead mirrors Asatru’s respect for learning and poetic expression. As symbols, these vessels remind followers of Asatru to seek personal growth and pursue insight actively. The story inspires those in Asatru to explore knowledge, honor creativity, and take bold steps to grow in wisdom.
